Three flagpoles stand in an area between the Legislative Building and the Temple of Justice on West Capitol Campus, known as the Flag Circle. There is a flagpole for the U.S. flag, one for the Washington state flag, and one for special flags.

The Flag Circle is one of two official locations that the State Capitol Committee requires to display of the U.S. and Washington state flags on Capitol Campus. The other flag plaza is located next to the Pollinator Garden on East Capitol Campus. 

Types of flags flown in the Flag Circle

The U.S. flag and Washington state flag are always flown on the first two flagpoles in the Flag Circle, as required by Washington state law.

The flags of visiting U.S. and international governors and dignitaries are sometimes flown on the third flagpole at our governor's discretion. For example, the Japan flag was flown when the governor of Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture visited the Capitol Campus in 2023.

The POW/MIA flag is flown under the U.S. flag on certain days each year, such as Veteran’s Day (November 11), as designated by the state legislature.

Special flags are also flown on the third flagpole to honor significant events and activities unrelated to government. For example, during Pride Month in June, the Pride flag is flown alongside the state and national flags. In some cases, even Washington sports teams’ flags are flown to celebrate winning a national championship or reaching a significant milestone. For instance, the Seattle Seahawks flag was flown when they won the Super Bowl in 2013 and on the team’s 50th anniversary in 2025.

Flag lowering (half-staff)

Flag lowering directives are issued by the Washington state governor for specific observances.